Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio: Illustrated Lyrics

Author: (Qing) Nalan Xing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-06-01
Features: The "Jinxiang" (small portable box) format, flourishing in the Southern Studio and reaching its peak during the Song Dynasty, saw new designs in the Ming and Qing dynasties. The term "Jinxiang" referred to small boxes used in ancient times to carry daily necessities like handkerchiefs and other items. Travelers and scholars carried these books with them, reading them anytime and anywhere. Thus, the small format was designed to fit into these boxes for convenience—portable for travel and easy to read while resting. Leisurely moments were spent admiring these books. Although the Jinxiang book is considered a minor branch in the forest of books, it upholds the spirit of Confucius's "Learn and practice in due time," and its contributions are significant.
Unfortunately, in recent times, with the influence of Western culture, books have increasingly adopted Western bindings. Following this trend, books have become heavier and more cumbersome. Carrying them is like a burden for oxen, and reading them while lying down is a struggle. Worse still, some publishers prioritize outward appearance over substance, favoring heavy boxes over valuable content, misleading readers and drifting farther from the true essence of books.
The "Shuyun Xi" (Book Charm Collection) series was created with purpose, drawing on the successes and failures of past Jinxiang books. It aims to return to simplicity and elegance, promoting national culture: the design should be small yet complete, the price should be affordable yet feature carefully selected editions, the selection should be purposeful yet emphasize personal charm and literary interest, and the layout should be meticulous yet dynamic. This is what is meant by pouring great effort and heart into a small series, making it so captivating that one cannot put it down at first glance.
Mountains need not be high to be sacred; books need not be expensive to possess charm. Thus, the series is named "Shuyun Xi," hoping that refined and elegant gentlemen will appreciate its essence. This is the preface.